Author: Ritualcontrol

Chimes, a post-punk and goth/rock band from Florida, has released their debut music video for “Dovetail,” directed by Noelle Shuck, showcasing a mix of live performance footage and a shift toward a synth-driven sound. The song, featured on their album Pile of Parts, explores darker human experiences with themes of loss and disconnection, reflecting the weight of living. Released on May 23 via Ashtray Monument, the album is available on Bandcamp. Founded in 2019, Chimes brings together musicians with roots in notable Gainesville bands. As Pile of Parts delves into the depths of human experience, how do you think the…

Molecular Recordings celebrates its 50th release with Linear System’s EP “Turiban,” a masterful blend of rhythmic precision and visceral energy, designed for both club euphoria and deep listening. This release exemplifies the label’s dedication to pioneering techno while introducing the Covalence Series, a collaborative project that melds the visions of established and emerging artists, creating intricate soundscapes that defy genre boundaries. How does the fusion of established and emerging talents in the Covalence Series challenge our understanding of genre in electronic music, and can it pave the way for a more inclusive definition of techno? Read the Full Article

ACTORS, the Vancouver post-punk band, is gearing up for a North American tour from September 5 to October 2, following their European tour with Soft Vein. Festival appearances include ColdWaves in Chicago and Absolution Fest in Tampa, with stops in several major cities. They recently released a remix of “In Real Life” and are working on a new album after 2021’s Acts of Worship. Notably, they will support The Damned at a hometown show on July 28. Meanwhile, Soft Vein and Leathers have also been active, with new EPs and albums. Discussion Point: As ACTORS and their affiliated projects continue…

Summary: Vrna and Ens Imperfectissimum elevate the Italian underground ritual/dark ambient scene with their collaboration, "Necrognosis And Secret Rituals On the Edge Of The Abyss." This immersive 60-minute work fuses haunting field recordings from cemeteries with ritualistic soundscapes, creating an experience that transcends simple entertainment. Each track serves as a dark, sonic ritual steeped in occult significance, inviting listeners to confront themes of death and the unknown. Discussion Starter: How do you think the integration of ritualistic and occult elements in music impacts listeners’ emotional responses and perceptions of mortality? Read the Full Article

Melbourne artist Alien Skin has released his latest EP, Coldwave Manifesto, which embodies a lo-fi mix of darkwave, synthpop, and gothic sounds. The three tracks evoke feelings of emotional coldness and isolation, aligning with the artist’s fascination with the genre’s honesty. The EP, dedicated to his late partner Irene, marks Alien Skin’s fourth release in 2025, following his earlier works this year. He emphasizes a raw, unpolished approach over replicating an ’80s aesthetic. What do you think draws contemporary artists to explore themes of isolation and emotional distance in their music? Read the Full Article

The Rollings brothers from Doncaster, known as Peak Flow, have released a new single titled “Don’t Die In Your Sleep.” This post-punk track explores the profound grief of losing a friend suddenly, blending high-energy synths with themes of emotional exhaustion and regret. The driving music contrasts with the somber lyrics, reflecting the struggle of dealing with unexpected loss and the importance of valuing relationships. In light of this poignant message, how can we better express our feelings and appreciation for loved ones before it’s too late? Read the Full Article

This week’s music selection embodies a dream pop vibe, rich in ethereal themes that resonate deeply. Wavepool’s "Tiny Cowboy" captivates with its poignant lyrics and layered sound, evoking nostalgic reflections and emotions of longing. Meanwhile, Pale Lace’s "Blind Me" offers a delicate, immersive dreamscape, exploring themes of escape and intimacy. Lastly, Emilya Ndme’s "Am I" features hypnotic rhythms, blending dream pop and indietronica, maintaining an undercurrent of melancholy without ever fully unleashing. These tracks illustrate the power of music to articulate complex emotions—how do you think the dream pop genre encapsulates personal experiences and thoughts in a way that other…

Portland’s rich music scene continues to impress with Altar Girl, an all-female post-punk band. Their latest single, “Night Terrors,” showcases ethereal guitars and sultry vocals, creating a haunting atmosphere that explores themes of dreams and nightmares. With catchy melodies and enchanting creepiness, they invite listeners into a world of gothic rock. What do you think contributes to Portland’s unique musical landscape, and how does the essence of the city manifest in the sound and themes of its local bands? Read the Full Article

Join us for an unforgettable night at the Confession Club in Krakow on Saturday, August 2, 2025, as The Raven unleashes a captivating mix of DARK ALTERNATIVE music genres—from Dark Rock to Dark Electro. Starting at 21:00 and continuing until sunrise, immerse yourself in the darkness with the mantra: “Dance, not to escape the darkness — but to become it.” As the rhythms of the night echo through the crypts, how do you think music connects us to our darker selves, and what role does it play in expressing our innermost emotions? Read the Full Article

Chicago’s Ganser is set to release their much-anticipated album, Animal Hospital, on August 29. This marks their first full-length release with the current lineup, featuring founding members Alicia Gaines and Brian Cundiff, along with lead vocalist Sophie Sputnik. Produced alongside Angus Andrew, the album reflects years of creativity and exploration of the human experience, with material dating back to 2001. Following their 2020 album and a series of EPs, Animal Hospital showcases the band’s evolution while grappling with themes of observation and the shifting nature of humanity. As listeners anticipate the new sounds from Ganser, how do you think the…